Differential Effects of Pollution Duration on Hair, and Skin Phenotypes in Oil Sector Workers

Abstract

This comparative study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics and health effects associated with short-term and long-term exposure to an unspecified environmental or occupational factor among two groups, each comprising 100 individuals aged between 29 and 59 years. The median age and BMI were higher in the long-term exposure group (48 years, 29.2 kg/m²) compared to the short-term exposure group (35 years, 24.5 kg/m²). Differences were observed in education level, marital status, smoking habits, and alcohol consumption, with a higher proportion of married individuals and alcohol abstainers in the long-term group. Clinical symptoms such as coughing (55% vs. 35%), wheezing (35% vs. 18%), and respiratory infections (22% vs. 14%) were more frequent in the long-term group, indicating cumulative respiratory burden. Eye-related signs such as eye redness (60% vs. 35%) and capillary congestion (45% vs. 25%) were also more prominent in the long-term group, while skin rashes were more reported in the short-term group (25% vs. 15%). Notably, a shift in hair color distribution was observed with increased exposure duration, with a rise in blonde (25% vs. 15%) and white hair (20% vs. 10%) prevalence in the long-term group. These findings suggest a clear relationship between duration of exposure and multiple health indicators, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and regular monitoring for at-risk populations.